Easy for You to Say: Q&As for Teens Living with Chronic Illness or Disability

Gr 8 Up—Written in a frank style, this volume continues to address teen concerns in a question/comment-and-answer format. As in the 2005 edition, the material is organized into eight topical chapters, including family relationships; doctors and medical issues; friends and dating; school and work; alcohol, drugs, and medications; sexuality; recreation; and transitions. The chapter on sexuality remains the longest; in it, the author responds to concerns about heterosexual relationships, homosexuality, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases. The questions/comments come from teens Kaufman met while researching the book, from her patients, and from colleagues. Many of questions/comments are carried over from the earlier edition, with new ones added. Some of the answers from the second edition have been condensed here. Kaufman approaches the material positively and sensitively. While she refers to Canadian practices, the book still applies to U.S. teens. The appendix contains extensive charts on medications and their side effects, and drug interactions. A new chart covers medications and skin sensitivity to the sun. This updated edition will be a helpful resource for teens who may at first be reticent to take these types of questions/comments to adults. The work also provides professionals in the field of medicine valuable insights into the concerns of disabled and ill teenagers.—Lynn Vanca, Freelance Librarian, Akron, OH